Unveil Rwanda’s natural grandeur and cultural depth from an elevated perspective with this 5 Days Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter tour across Rwanda. This curated journey offers the best of the country’s breathtaking destinations Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and vibrant Kigali while bypassing long road transfers for seamless aerial travel. From encountering mountain gorillas in the misty Virunga Mountains to tracking chimpanzees in the ancient Nyungwe rainforest, every experience is enhanced by exceptional service, private guides, and world-class accommodation. This itinerary is crafted for travelers who value exclusivity, efficiency, and immersive, meaningful travel all delivered with Rwandan warmth and sophisticated flair.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Helicopter Flight to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by a private concierge for VIP fast-track assistance. After a short drive to the helipad, enjoy a scenic 30-minute private helicopter flight over Rwanda’s iconic “land of a thousand hills,” as you head north to Volcanoes National Park. Watch the landscape transform from urban elegance to lush green valleys and volcanic peaks.
Upon landing, a warm welcome awaits at your luxury lodge. Spend the afternoon at your leisure indulge in a forest-view massage, unwind by a fireplace with a curated wine selection, or explore nearby villages. Later in the day, you can opt for a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where traditional music, dance, and local storytelling offer an authentic introduction to the region.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure – Afternoon Leisure and Spa
Wake early for a hearty breakfast before setting off to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking protocols. Accompanied by expert trackers and guides, embark on a gorilla trek through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Depending on your group’s location, the trek may last between 1 to 4 hours. Once you find your designated gorilla family, spend a mesmerizing hour watching them forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat an unforgettable, emotional experience that few ever witness.
Return to your lodge for a late lunch, then unwind with a forest spa treatment, a guided nature walk, or simply take in the views from your private deck. The evening is yours to enjoy with personalized service, gourmet dining, and fireside drinks.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Helicopter Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park on a private helicopter transfer to Nyungwe Forest, soaring over Lake Kivu’s emerald shoreline and Rwanda’s terraced highlands. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your lodge on the edge of the rainforest.
After settling in and enjoying a fresh lunch, embark on a guided tea plantation tour, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s premium tea production and sample fragrant, high-altitude blends with a tea master. Return to the lodge for afternoon leisure enjoy a dip in the pool, schedule a spa session, or explore nearby forest trails with your guide.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe – Canopy Walk Experience
Today begins with an early transfer into Cyamudongo Forest for a chimpanzee trek. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll follow the calls and rustling branches through thick forest terrain until you find a lively troop of chimps. Spend up to an hour observing their dynamic social interactions in the wild an exhilarating and heartwarming experience.
After lunch, enjoy the iconic Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge 70 meters above the rainforest floor that offers panoramic views and thrilling glimpses of the treetops and wildlife. The rest of the afternoon is yours: soak in the tranquility with a book, meditate by the forest edge, or enjoy a custom spa treatment.
As night falls, enjoy private stargazing under one of Rwanda’s clearest skies, perhaps with a warm drink in hand and a blanket around your shoulders.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Helicopter Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, board your helicopter for a scenic return to Kigali, flying past Lake Kivu and the dense, undulating hills of western Rwanda. Upon arrival in the capital, enjoy a curated city experience: visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a moving reflection on Rwanda’s past, explore art galleries, or browse for handmade crafts and haute couture at local boutiques.
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final gourmet lunch or early dinner at one of Kigali’s top restaurants before being transferred to the airport in a private luxury vehicle.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 5 Days Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter.
The 5 Days Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter cost includes;
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Domestic Helicopter Flights.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the cost excludes; International air fare, visa fees, personal shopping bills, tips to local guides, personal medical and travel insurance, items of personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, souvenirs, items not listed as included etc.